Scientists have successfully split water into hydrogen and oxygen using light and meticulously designed catalysts, and they did so at the maximum efficiency meaning there was almost no loss and undesired side reactions. This latest breakthrough in solar hydrogen production makes the likelihood of scalable, economically viable hydrogen production more than likely, paving the way … [Read more...] about Solar hydrogen production: Splitting water with UV is now at almost 100% quantum efficiency
A remote control for neurons
A team led by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University has created a new technology that enhances scientists' ability to communicate with neural cells using light. Tzahi Cohen-Karni, associate professor of biomedical engineering and materials science and engineering, led a team that synthesized three-dimensional fuzzy graphene on a nanowire template to create a superior … [Read more...] about A remote control for neurons
Researchers develop viable sodium battery
Washington State University (WSU) and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) researchers have created a sodium-ion battery that holds as much energy and works as well as some commercial lithium-ion battery chemistries, making for a potentially viable battery technology out of abundant and cheap materials. The team reports one of the best results to date for a sodium-ion … [Read more...] about Researchers develop viable sodium battery
Paper-thin gallium oxide transistor handles more than 8,000 volts
People love their electric cars. But not so much the bulky batteries and related power systems that take up precious cargo space. Help could be on the way from a gallium oxide-based transistor under development at the University at Buffalo. In a study published in the June edition of IEEE Electron Device Letters, electrical engineers describe how the tiny electronic switch can … [Read more...] about Paper-thin gallium oxide transistor handles more than 8,000 volts
Smart windows that self-illuminate on rainy days
Smart windows that automatically change colors depending on the intensity of sunlight are gaining attention as they can reduce energy bills by blocking off sun's visible rays during summer. But what about windows that change colors depending on the humidity outside during the monsoon season or on hot days of summer? Recently, a Korean research team has developed the source … [Read more...] about Smart windows that self-illuminate on rainy days